The African Union (AU) has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Mali as the country faces mounting security threats, despite its 2021 suspension from the organisation. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, arrived in Bamako on July 12 for an official visit aimed at bolstering dialogue and cooperation between the continental body and Malian authorities.
Solidarity with Bamako in turbulent times
During his stay, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the full solidarity of the African Union with Mali in combating armed insurgencies plaguing the nation. The AU remains actively engaged despite Mali’s suspension following the 2021 coup d’état, which violated constitutional order. While the suspension aims to pressure military authorities toward restoring democratic governance, the AU refuses to isolate Mali, viewing its stability as vital to regional security.
Diplomatic channels remain open through the AU’s Special Representative for Mali and the Sahel, as well as the African Union Mission for the Sahel and Mali (MISAHEL). These mechanisms underscore the AU’s commitment to maintaining engagement despite political constraints.
Moving beyond symbolic support
While the AU’s political backing is clear, some analysts argue that concrete action is needed. Alioune Tine, founder of the Africa Jom Center and an independent expert, stresses that solidarity must translate into tangible support, including mobilising African troops to assist Mali in its fight against terrorism.
“The AU Chairperson must demonstrate solidarity in a more active, practical way,” Tine stated. “This means rallying resource-rich member states to provide assistance and deploying AU forces to bolster Mali’s counterterrorism efforts.”
Challenges of a divided approach
Despite Mali’s rejection of the 2015 Algiers Accord, the AU continues to prioritise political solutions over military intervention. However, experts highlight the organisation’s structural and political limitations. Aly Tounkara, from the Sahel Center for Security and Strategic Studies, points to internal divisions among AU member states and reliance on external donors as major obstacles.
“The AU’s ability to provide military or intelligence support is constrained by the lack of consensus among member states,” Tounkara explained. “Additionally, the organisation’s dependence on extra-Sahelian funding sources further complicates its capacity to take decisive action.”
As Mali grapples with evolving threats, including alliances between separatist groups and jihadist factions, the AU’s approach remains a balancing act between diplomacy, territorial integrity, and internal political constraints. Whether this visit signifies a meaningful step forward or merely symbolic solidarity remains to be seen.
